A block of more than 80 student flats could regenerate a “long-derelict” brownfield site which was previously home to a pub and furnishing business.

Kappa Maritime & Estates Ltd wants to carry out the major redevelopment at 264 and 266 Portswood Road, Southampton.

The proposals involve the demolition of the Waggoners Arms pub building and former Burts Furnishing premises.

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If approved, the scheme will see a four-storey block of 83 one-bed studio flats built on site, which sits at the corner of Portswood Road and Osborne Road.

An application has been submitted to Southampton City Council planning department.

A planning statement prepared by Rok Planning said: “It (the scheme) involves the regeneration of a long-derelict, brownfield site within an established settlement boundary, delivering much-needed purpose-built student accommodation to meet a clear and growing need.”

A design and access statement submitted on behalf of the applicant by Ridge and Partners LLP said the site was in a sustainable location with public transport links, cycle routes and proximity to the main university campus and local district centre.

The statement said the proposed building had been designed in a way that allowed it to be adaptable from student housing to private apartments for future-proofing if required.

Floor plans show studios could be combined to create various one- and two-bed flats in line with nationally described space standards.

“This adaptable design not only safeguards the long-term value of the investment but also ensures that the scheme continues to enhance the character and visual appeal of Portswood Road over time if its use needs to change for any reason,” the statement added.

The 19th century Waggoners Arms building has been vacant since the pub closed down in 2018.

The adjoining premises, which had a shop frontage and factory on the rear of the plot, has also been unoccupied for some time.

Kappa Maritime & Estates submitted a separate application for the demolition of the buildings earlier this year.

Council officers are still considering this request after the public consultation closed in late April.